The Evolution of Name Cards Part Two

18th - 19th Century 

In the above century, the popularity of this trade card went beyond Europe to America, where the card was used for trade purposes. The card was well shaped, sized, and designed to resemble a playing card, with directory maps to contact the card owner. The trading card women use is quite different from the one men of that time were using. The card will be handed out before and after a trade transaction was made. 

The 19th century brought yet another innovation. The industrial revolution of the 19th century made the usage of trade cards a normal phenomenon. Almost everybody in the middle class and above had a trading card. Unlike before, people using the trading card for transactions, passing out their complete details and contact information were afraid of putting their full details and contact information on their trade cards. It became a norm in the 19th century. It was this development that transmitted to the 20th century.  

20th Century  

These simple name card printing are now widespread and use widely by different individuals and organizations, or companies. Unlike before, these essential marketing tools promote their credibility, businesses, brands, and services. Everyone, not just the elites, uses it. With the help of modern technology, name cards are now in varieties of sorts and sizes, with full details and contact of the holder, which allow the recipients to remember the person, brands, or products and services for future patronage. 

Today if you get hold of a name card, you become familiar with the brand and research more about them. There is no doubt that the modern name cards result from the transition from simple Chinese visiting cards in the 15th century to European trade cards in the 17th and 18th centuries.